Dear AskMason:

My wife and I are planning to build a new deck soon. It seems like salt-treated wood is not used too much anymore. Why? We have heard about and seen Trex, as well as Ipe and other materials. We’re confused! Which is the best??

John in Goochland

John:

Advance congratulations on your upcoming improvements! A deck is a great way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Central Virginia!

I love your question for two reasons: 1) Obviously, the deck material inquiry is one we deal-with regularly – there are SO many options. 2) The premise, “which is the best?” may apply to any of a number of

Mason:

Could HomeMasons advise me on saving money in remodeling by reusing existing components of my house like doors, cabinets and the like? It would be helpful if you could tell me where reuse of my existing materials would save money and where it would not be advisable.

Could you also give advise on how to incorporate "green" energy saving and "sustainable" components in my remodeling project?

Thanks.
PB in Richmond

PB:

“Green” remodeling has little to do with your color selections (although I do believe that 60's Avocado is coming back!). Remodeling, a form of recycling, is inherently “green”.

Mason:

I am considering the purchase of a 1960’s home, which has a couple of old-looking heating and air conditioning systems. I am concerned that these might be in need of replacement. How would I know if these are going to be a problem?

Patrick

Dear Patrick:

First, let me suggest the engagement of an independent, professional home inspector prior to making any purchase decisions on an older home. These guys are well worth their fees, to let you know what you might be getting into in regards mechanical systems, as well as the multitude of other concerns you might encounter. Naturally, expect

I just had to show y’all this recently-completed project in Manakin-Sabot. It is a 1400 SF master suite addition - the second major remodel designed and built by HomeMasons at this property.

The first, a den extension with a sunroom, screened porch and exterior improvements, won a “Best of the South” Award in 2004. The Homeowner declares these new enhancements to be “HomeMasons’ best work ever”.

 

The addition echos the earlier improvements, completing a rear pergola with a similar colonnaded, sun-filled gallery. Other traditional design elements include a standing seam metal roof, oversized

Mason:

I’m a friend and neighbor of Jim and Marguerite Bruce and, having seen their home being built in the late 70’s - knowing it could be so much more than it was - love what you did for “the old Groseclose place”! I have a question - can you recommend someone experienced in cleaning and sealing an interior brick floor? My living room, approx. 16 x 40', is brick over concrete on grade. Installed in 1981, it was sealed with polyurethane. Most of that has deteriorated and peeled up over the years, except an area that was under a rug which still looks pretty good. I now want to remove the rug